What is an RNAV/RNP Approach?

An RNP (Required Navigation Performance) or RNAV (Area Navigation) approach is a precision approach (with LNAV/VNAV engaged) procedure enabling aircraft to navigate and descend with lateral and vertical guidance towards a designated runway during the latter stages of an instrument approach. This approach leverages advanced navigation gear and satellite-based systems to steer the aircraft along a predefined route, typically offering greater flexibility and customization to suit individual airports and topography compared to conventional VOR, ILS, or MLS approaches. Bear in mind that a LNAV only approach is a non-precision one, and a LNAV/VNAV approach is a precision one. This does not depend on your aircraft capabilities, assuming everything is working as it should, but it only relies on the charted approach of the airport. The approach minimums are usually slightly higher than an ILS approach and account for obstacles such as terrain.

Flying the Approach

Your RNP/RNAV Approach will commence similarly to a standard ILS approach, but with the difference that not only it should be initiated at the Initial Approach Fix (IAF e.g: TANDO/ODBIP/IVANI) but if ATC offers a direct to the Intermediate Fix (IF e.g: TOVAN) this can be accepted. Proceeding direct to the Final Approach Fix/Final Descent Point (FAF/FDP e.g: HH601) are forbidden.

To illustrate, in an Airbus, you’ll engage the approach mode, indicated by “FINAL APP” on the Flight Mode Annunciator (FMA) and a green descent path representation guiding you to the minimums. In a Boeing, simply activate LNAV/VNAV modes and adjust your altitude setting to the minimums. After the aircraft is fully established on the descent path, you can reset it to the missed-approach altitude as necessary on your FCU/MCP. You then fly it all the way down as usual. Good luck!